Available online 11 December 2025

Retained foreign bodies can be the source of prolonged vaginal bleeding or abnormal discharge in pediatric patients.

A 17-year-old with history of childhood sexual abuse presented with a six-year course of progressive, foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Despite multiple provider visits, a pelvic exam had never been completed until referral to specialized care. An exam under anesthesia demonstrated significant adherence of the object and imaging failed to clarify the planes of invasion. Therefore, a multidisciplinary surgical team was convened for further evaluation. Laparoscopy was utilized to confirm no pelvic invasion, and the 8 cm object was removed vaginally.

Long-retained vaginal foreign bodies can be significantly morbid. The value of trauma-informed care, the need for early exams, and a multidisciplinary approach are invaluable for patients presenting with these symptoms.

Vaginal foreign body

Surgical planning

Trauma-informed care

Adolescent

Case report

© 2025 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology.